Riflescope Encoder Adjustment for Real-Time Aiming Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional riflescope adjustment mechanisms require users to remove their eye from the view to interpret indicia markings on the turret knob for adjusting aiming points, complicating the process of compensating for factors affecting bullet trajectory at long ranges.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an encoder system with gears and Hall effect sensors to determine the rotational position of adjustment components within the riflescope, allowing for real-time display of adjustments without the need to look away, using a 1:1 gear ratio and independent gear ratios to track complete revolutions and partial rotations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional indicia markings on turret knob are used for adjustment, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates because user must remove eye from view to interpret markings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical indicia marking system with an electronic encoder system that uses optical or magnetic fields to detect rotational position. The encoder converts mechanical rotation into electrical signals that are processed by a controller, substituting simple mechanical indicators with an electronic sensing and processing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electronic system between the mechanical adjustment mechanism and the user. The encoder acts as an intermediary that translates mechanical rotation into digital information, which is then displayed on an LCD or processed by a controller, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for direct visual interpretation of mechanical markings.
2Ease of operation
If encoder system with gears and sensors is implemented, then ease of operation is improved through real-time feedback, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical indicia marking system with an electronic encoder system that uses optical or magnetic fields to detect rotational position. The encoder converts mechanical rotation into electrical signals that are processed by a controller, substituting simple mechanical indicators with an electronic sensing and processing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the encoder continuously monitors the rotational position of the adjustment mechanism and provides real-time information to the user through an LCD display or controller. This closed-loop feedback system allows users to see adjustment results immediately without removing their eye from the scope view.
3Measurement precision
If 1:1 gear ratio and independent gear ratios are used to track revolutions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple gears and sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into two distinct gear ratios: a 1:1 gear ratio for tracking complete revolutions and an independent gear ratio for tracking partial rotations. This segmentation allows each gear system to specialize in a specific measurement aspect, improving overall measurement precision while maintaining manageable complexity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to the measurement system by using two different gear ratios that operate simultaneously but measure different aspects of rotation. The 1:1 gear captures full revolution information while the independent gear captures fractional rotation data, creating a multi-dimensional measurement approach that enhances precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and efficient adjustment of aiming points by providing real-time positional feedback through the riflescope's display, enhancing user experience and accuracy in long-range shooting without the need to remove the eye from the view.
Implementation Method 1
the first sensor and the second sensor each include Hall effect sensors
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment assembly having a rotary encoder, riflescopes incorporating the same, and related methods are provided. In one example, an adjustment assembly includes a first rotational component configured to rotate about an axis, a first gear coupled with the first rotational component and a second gear coupled with the first rotational component. The assembly further includes an encoder. The encoder includes a position gear engaged with the first gear, the first gear and the position gear having a 1:1 gear ratio, and a revolution gear engaged with the second gear, the second gear and the revolution gear having a gear ratio other than 1:1, wherein the gear ratio of the second gear and the revolution gear independent of a ratio of the respective diameters of the second gear and the revolution gear. Sensors may determine the rotational positions of the position sensor and the revolution sensors.